Trivia

His favourite role was often quoted as that of Charles Condamine in Noel Coward's farce "Blithe Spirit". It ran for 1,997 performances, (from 1941), few of which Parker missed, establishing his reputation as one of Britain's foremost comedy actors. He himself contributed a sketch.

Active service during the First World War delayed his stage debut until 1922 at Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne, with Charles Doran's Shakesperian company.

Made his first and only appearance on the New York stage in 1950, in James Bridie's play "Daphne Laureola", with Dame Edith Evans in the title role.

Educated at Xavier College and Bruges.

Following stints with the Huddersfield Repertory Company and the Abbey Theatre in Dublin, he made his London stage debut with the Liverpool Repertory Company at the Everyman in 1925.

Tended to play rather nervous characters who worried easily.

He was a top West End star as a dramatic actor before he played comedy. His career as a comedian was launched by Laurence Olivier, who starred him in 'Golden Arrow', and was the only person until then who thought he had potential for comedy.

Father: Charles A. Schwabe; Mother: Kate Parker.